The 2019 BMW M2 Competition Shares the Same Powertrain with the M3/M4

The new BMW M2 Competition benefits from a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter engine that provides impressive power numbers, especially in comparison to the departing 2018 M2 model. But then that M3 lump delivers peak torque, all 550Nm of it, instead of 465Nm (500Nm on overboost) from 2,350 to 5,200rpm. Well, the M2 Competition is still the same trim size and weight, but it promises to be more agile and quicker than ever.

It is available with either a six-speed manual or dual-clutch seven-speed automatic transmission.

Either way, the top speed is limited to 155mph unless you opt for the M Driver's package, which takes it to 173mph. The lightweight, partially aluminum front and rear axles are also from the M3/M4, as is the 3.3-lb CFRP strut brace in the engine bay. A set of 19-inch "Y-spoke" alloy wheels is fitted, finished in silver as standard or jet black as an option.

An active differential helps performance, automatically locking when launching on slippery surfaces, and reacting accordingly to steering angle, throttle position and yaw rate. That's great news for those who revel in the rev-happy nature of BMWs sportiest cars and the brand also promises an even more distinctive straight-six soundtrack for the Competition, aided by electronic exhaust flaps.

Exterior changes are relatively minor, yet appealing. These include larger air intakes and a gloss black "kidney grille" at the front, along with new wing mirrors and black inserts on the side of the vehicle. Then there are the black tailpipes poking out the back, double-arm door mirrors and a new front skirt with a modified air intake, which BMW says is there to improve both the look and cooling potential.

BMW M engineers did not create the M2 competition by just installing a hotter engine in a regular M2, that's not all the job done here.

On the inside, the Competition retains the same general layout of the M2 but adds to the sense of occasion with a choice of blue or orange perforated segments of the black leather and Alcantara seats, which incorporate an integrated headrest.

A new BMW M2 has been a subject among fans of the German automaker and now they don't have to wait any longer. So equipped, the M2 Competition will blitz the zero-to-100 km/h benchmark in just 4.2 seconds (4.4 seconds with the manual), 0.1 seconds faster than the M2.

For starters, the standard M2's highly-tuned N55 engine has been replaced by a detuned version of the M3 and M4's S55 mill.

The larger grille admits more air to the engine and is joined by a front skirt whose contours are created to direct air around the front of the vehicle for engine cooling and improved aerodynamics.

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